IdeasFuse Staff, Author at IdeasFuse

How to Choose the Best Health Insurance in Germany: Public vs Private

Introduction

Navigating health insurance in Germany can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the system or facing different options like public and private health insurance. This guide will help you understand how health insurance works in Germany, who is eligible for each type, the costs, coverage, and how to easily compare plans using Tarifcheck. Whether you’re a freelancer, student, civil servant, or over 55 — this article has you covered.

What is Health Insurance in Germany?

Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) is mandatory for everyone living in Germany. It covers medical expenses, hospital visits, and prescribed medication. The system is split into two main types:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung / GKV)
Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung / PKV)

Most people are insured through public health insurance, but depending on your income, job status, or personal situation, private health insurance might be an option.

Who is Eligible for Public vs Private Health Insurance?

Public Health Insurance: Mandatory for employees earning under €69,300 per year (as of 2025), students, and unemployed residents.
Private Health Insurance: Available for freelancers, self-employed individuals, civil servants, high earners, and certain students.

Costs of Public vs Private Health Insurance

Public health insurance costs around 14-16% of your gross salary, split evenly between you and your employer. Family members without income (spouse, children) are covered for free.

Private health insurance premiums are based on your age, health condition, and the benefits you choose — not your income. It can be cheaper for young, healthy people and offer more flexible coverage.

Coverage and Benefits Comparison

Public insurance offers standardized benefits like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. Private insurance allows you to customize your plan, with options like private hospital rooms, premium dental care, and alternative medicine.

When Should You Choose Public or Private?

Public insurance is best for families, employees under €69,300, and people with pre-existing conditions.
Private insurance suits young professionals, freelancers, self-employed individuals, civil servants, students, and healthy individuals seeking better services.

Types of Health Insurance in Germany

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung / GKV)

Mandatory for most employees earning under €69,300 per year. It provides comprehensive coverage and free insurance for dependent family members.

Private Health Insurance for Freelancers and Self-Employed

Freelancers and self-employed individuals can opt for private health insurance, which may offer lower premiums and better benefits based on age and health.

Compare private health insurance for freelancers here*.

Private Health Insurance for Civil Servants

Civil servants (Beamte) receive government subsidies, making private health insurance a financially attractive option with superior services.

See private health insurance for civil servants here*.

Supplementary Health Insurance (Zusatzversicherung)

Enhances public insurance coverage with extras like private hospital rooms, dental care, and alternative medicine.

Explore supplementary health insurance options here*.

Private Health Insurance for Students

Students under 30 or within their first 14 semesters can switch to private insurance, often benefiting from lower rates and extra services.

Compare student health insurance plans here*.

Private Health Insurance for People Over 55

Switching after 55 is tricky but possible. Plans are available for those in good health or seeking supplementary options.

Check private health insurance options for over 55s here*.

How to Compare Health Insurance with Tarifcheck

Comparing plans is easy with Tarifcheck. You can:

Apply for a plan online within minutes
Filter plans based on your needs
Compare prices and benefits side-by-side

Start comparing all insurance types on Tarifcheck*.

Summary Table: Types of Health Insurance in Germany

Type of Insurance	Who It’s For	How to Compare
Private for Freelancers/Self-Employed	Self-employed, freelancers	Compare here*
Private for Civil Servants (Beamte)	Civil servants in Germany	Compare here*
Supplementary Health Insurance	Publicly insured people wanting extra benefits	See options*
Private for Students	Students under 30, international students	Compare here*
Private for People Over 55	Older adults switching or supplementing plans	Compare here*
Public Health Insurance (GKV)	Employees earning under €69,300, families

Internal Resources You’ll Find Useful

Conclusion

Choosing between public and private health insurance in Germany depends on your job, lifestyle, family status, and personal needs. While public insurance provides standardized, family-friendly coverage, private health insurance offers flexibility, premium services, and sometimes lower costs for the self-employed, civil servants, students, and healthy young people.

Using Tarifcheck makes it easier to compare different options and find the plan that fits your life best.

_{*Links marked with an asterisk (*) are affiliate links. If you use these links and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.}

April 14, 2025 IdeasFuse Staff Uncategorized No comments yet

How to Get Affordable Green Electricity in Germany with Check24

If you’re living in Germany and want to switch to green electricity, you’re not alone. More and more people are becoming environmentally conscious and want their homes powered by renewable energy sources. But with so many providers and plans out there, it can be overwhelming to find the best deal.

That’s where Check24 comes in. This comparison platform makes it easy to compare electricity providers — especially green electricity in Germany — and switch with just a few clicks. Plus, with multiple brands, bonus offers, and transparent pricing, it’s the smart choice for anyone looking to save money and the planet.

Here’s how to use Check24 to find the best green electricity provider in Germany and why making the switch is worth it.

Why Choose Green Electricity in Germany?

Germany is a leader in the global energy transition (Energiewende), with a strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions. By choosing green electricity, you’re supporting:

Wind, solar, and hydro energy sources
Less dependency on fossil fuels
A sustainable future for everyone

Not only is this better for the environment, but green electricity plans are often competitively priced. In fact, many providers offer eco-friendly plans with lower rates or welcome bonuses, especially when you switch online through comparison tools like Check24.

Why Use Check24 to Compare Green Electricity Providers?

Check24 is Germany’s most popular comparison site — and for good reason. Here’s what makes it the go-to tool for switching your energy provider:

✅ Multiple Brands at Your Fingertips

You’ll find offers from hundreds of electricity providers, including both traditional and green energy companies. Some of the well-known green electricity brands on Check24 include:

LichtBlick
Naturstrom
E wie einfach (with eco tariffs)
Polarstern

✅ Easy Comparison of Green Energy Options

Check24 lets you filter for “green electricity” (Ökostrom) so you can easily find certified renewable energy plans. You’ll see:

Monthly costs
Annual savings compared to your current plan
Bonus offers
Customer ratings

✅ Fast and Free Switching

Once you’ve chosen a plan, switching takes less than 5 minutes. No paperwork, no stress — Check24 takes care of the cancellation and setup with your new provider.

👉 Ready to start comparing? Use our affiliate link to get started:
Compare Green Electricity Providers Now

How to Compare Green Electricity Providers in Germany

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you find the best green electricity deal using Check24:

Step 1: Gather Your Details

You’ll need:

Your current electricity provider’s name
Your yearly consumption in kWh (you can find this on your last electricity bill)
Your postal code

Step 2: Go to Check24

Click this affiliate link to get started: https://www.c24n.de/YAKrua4

Step 3: Enter Your Details

Fill in your postal code and estimated electricity usage. For green electricity, make sure to check the box for “Nur Ökostrom anzeigen” (only show green electricity).

Step 4: Compare Offers

You’ll now see a list of offers tailored to your location and consumption. Pay attention to:

Preisgarantie (price guarantee)
Neukundenbonus (new customer bonus)
Vertragslaufzeit (contract length)

Step 5: Switch and Save

Choose the best deal, click through, and complete the switch. You’ll typically receive confirmation from your new provider within a few days.

How Much Can You Save?

Switching electricity providers in Germany can save you up to €300 per year — and sometimes more if you take advantage of welcome bonuses. Many green electricity tariffs are actually cheaper than standard local tariffs, especially if you’re on a basic plan from your city’s energy supplier (Stadtwerke).

You can even combine savings by switching both your electricity and internet provider at the same time. We wrote a full guide on that here:
👉 How to Compare Internet Providers in Germany and Save Big with Check24

Is Green Electricity Really Green?

Yes — when you choose a certified green provider in Germany, they must meet strict standards. Look for:

TÜV-certified energy labels
Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (Herkunftsnachweis)
Providers who invest in new renewable energy infrastructure

To learn more about how electricity providers work in Germany, check out our in-depth guide here:
👉 Choosing the Right Electricity Provider in Germany: A Guide to Saving Money and Energy

Final Thoughts: Go Green, Save Green

Switching to green electricity in Germany isn’t just good for the planet — it’s also a smart way to cut your household bills. With Check24, the process is quick, transparent, and completely free. You can compare multiple providers, filter for eco-friendly plans, and switch in minutes.

So whether you’ve just moved to Germany or you’ve been here a while, now’s the perfect time to make the change.

🌱 Ready to make the switch?
👉 Compare Green Electricity Plans on Check24

Quick FAQs

Is green electricity more expensive in Germany?
Not necessarily. Many green electricity tariffs are actually cheaper, especially when you switch online using a comparison tool like Check24.

Can I switch electricity providers anytime?
Yes, in most cases. If you’re on a standard tariff or your contract is ending soon, you can switch without penalty. Check24 will guide you through it.

Is Check24 free to use?
Absolutely. There are no hidden costs — it’s a 100% free tool for consumers.

If this post helped you, feel free to share it with friends who might also want to switch to a more sustainable lifestyle. Every step counts!

April 10, 2025 IdeasFuse Staff Check24, Electricity, Uncategorized No comments yet

How to Compare Internet Providers in Germany and Save Big with Check24

Looking for fast, affordable internet in Germany? Whether you’ve just moved, or you’re tired of your current provider, knowing how to compare internet providers in Germany is key to getting the best deal.

Germany’s internet landscape can be tricky—long contracts, confusing terms, and dozens of providers. If you’re new in the country, this guide to essential apps and newcomer gifts can help you settle in faster. Thankfully, Check24 makes it easy to find the best internet offers at your address.

Why You Should Compare Internet Providers in Germany

Many people in Germany stick with the same internet provider for years—often paying more than they need to. By learning how to compare internet providers in Germany, you can:

✅ Save money with exclusive bonuses and discounts
✅ Find faster internet for your specific location
✅ Avoid long-term contracts with hidden fees
✅ Read real customer reviews before choosing

How to Use Check24 to Compare Internet Providers in Germany

To make your life easier, use this Check24 link to jump straight to the internet comparison tool. Here’s how the process works:

1. Enter Your Address

Internet availability in Germany depends on your address. Start by typing in your PLZ (postal code) and house number. Check24 will scan for all internet providers that serve your area.

2. Select Your Preferred Speed

Want to stream, game, or work from home? Then go for 50 Mbit/s or higher. For basic browsing or emails, 16 Mbit/s may be enough.

You can filter by:

📶 Speed (16, 50, 100, 250, or 1000 Mbit/s)
🔌 Connection type: DSL, cable (Kabel), or fiber (Glasfaser)

Tip: Cable and fiber are faster, but not available everywhere. DSL is more widespread, especially in rural areas.

3. Compare Prices and Bonuses

Now comes the good part. You’ll see a list of internet providers, sorted by the effective price per month—after cashback and promotions.

Look out for:

💶 Cashback offers (some up to €200)
📦 Free router or shipping
🆓 No setup fees
📅 Flexible contract lengths (12 months, or even monthly)

By using Check24, you’ll often find better deals than going directly to the provider’s website.

Top Internet Providers to Compare in Germany with Check24

Check24 compares all major internet providers in Germany. Here are some of the top options:

✅ Vodafone Cable

Speeds up to 1000 Mbit/s
Cashback or 6 months free
Strong urban coverage

✅ 1&1 DSL

Good customer service
Shorter contracts available
Reliable DSL coverage

✅ Telekom

Germany’s biggest provider
Great rural coverage
Slightly higher pricing

✅ O2 Home

Budget-friendly
Free router deals
Mixed reviews on support

What to Watch Out for When You Compare Internet Providers in Germany

When comparing internet providers in Germany, it’s important to read the fine print. Here’s what to watch for:

🔁 Long-Term Contracts

Most internet plans are 24-month contracts. After that, prices can increase unless you switch. Set a reminder to cancel or renegotiate before the term ends.

💸 Setup and Router Fees

Some providers charge a one-time setup fee of around €40–70. Others rent out routers for €2–5/month. Always check what’s included in the deal.

🎯 Hidden Costs

That cheap price you see? It might only last for the first 6–12 months. Check24 shows the average monthly cost over the full contract period so you know the real deal.

Why Use Check24 to Compare Internet Providers in Germany?

There are many reasons to use Check24 instead of going directly to a provider:

✔️ Transparent price comparison
✔️ Reviews from real users
✔️ Special cashback and discount offers
✔️ Easy filtering by speed, price, and contract length
✔️ Support in switching or cancelling old contracts

It’s fast, free, and fully tailored to your location. Use this link to start now:
👉 Compare Internet Providers in Germany with Check24

Can I Switch If I’m Already Under Contract?

Yes! If you’re in a contract, you might still be able to switch:

Moving to a new address? You may be able to cancel early.
Price increase? You often have the right to terminate.
Contract expired? You can cancel with 1-month notice (since December 2021).

Check24 even offers help with your cancellation notice (“Kündigung”) and switching service, depending on the provider.

Final Tips to Save Even More

Set your contract reminder 3 weeks before it renews
Always check the effective price (not just the first-month promo)
Use cashback offers to reduce your upfront cost
Look for “keine Anschlussgebühr” to skip setup costs

Start Comparing Now

Getting internet in Germany doesn’t have to be complicated. By using Check24, you can easily compare providers, avoid hidden fees, and get the right plan for your needs. You can also compare electricity providers in Germany to save even more on your monthly bills.

If you’re ready to switch or get new internet, click below to get started:

👉 Compare Internet Providers in Germany with Check24

It’s fast, smart, and could save you hundreds of euros. Why wait?

April 9, 2025 IdeasFuse Staff Check24, General, Internet No comments yet

Compare electricity providers in Germany with Check24

Choosing the Right Electricity Provider in Germany: A Guide to Saving Money and Energy

Choosing the right electricity provider in Germany can save you hundreds of euros each year. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the differences between providers and how to find the best deal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the types of providers, what to look for, and how to easily compare them using Check24.

Types of Electricity Providers in Germany: Which One Fits You Best?

There are several types of electricity providers (Stromanbieter) in Germany, ranging from regional municipal utilities to nationwide private companies. Let’s explore some of the most popular categories:

1. Grundversorger (Default Providers)

These are the local utility companies that automatically provide electricity to households if no specific contract is chosen. Examples include:

Vattenfall in Berlin and Hamburg
SWM (Stadtwerke München) in Munich
EnBW in Baden-Württemberg

While they offer convenience, Grundversorger often have the highest rates. If you’ve just moved and haven’t selected a provider, you’re likely paying more than you should.

2. Discount Providers

These companies offer cheaper rates, often with introductory bonuses or temporary price freezes. Popular discount providers include:

E.ON
LichtBlick
Eprimo
Yello Strom

These providers usually have online-only contracts and may require signing up for a fixed term, like 12 or 24 months.

3. Green Electricity Providers (Ökostrom)

More and more consumers are switching to renewable electricity in Germany. Ökostrom providers guarantee that the electricity you pay for is sourced from wind, solar, or hydro. Leading green electricity companies include:

Naturstrom
Greenpeace Energy
Polarstern
LichtBlick (also considered green)

Many of these providers are certified with the ok-power or Grüner Strom-Label, ensuring that their electricity truly comes from renewable sources.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Provider

Before signing a contract, it’s important to look at more than just the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Here are key factors to consider:

Contract length: 12 months is typical, but some plans may offer better rates with longer commitments.
Notice period: You usually need to cancel 4–6 weeks in advance, or your contract may renew automatically.
Price guarantees: Look for a Preisgarantie to avoid unexpected rate hikes.
Bonus payments: Some providers offer sign-up or loyalty bonuses, which can lower your effective yearly cost.
Customer service: If you’re not fluent in German, check if the provider offers support in English.
Eco-friendliness: If sustainability matters to you, go with a certified green energy provider.

How to Switch Providers

Switching electricity providers in Germany is surprisingly easy and usually doesn’t require any paperwork or technician visits. Your new provider will handle the cancellation with your current supplier and coordinate the transition. You won’t experience any interruptions in service—it’s simply a matter of who bills you and at what rate.

Why Comparing Electricity Providers in Germany Matters

Because there are hundreds of available tariffs and dozens of active providers, the best way to find the right plan is to compare your options online. The price difference between the most expensive and the cheapest plan can be hundreds of euros per year.

Instead of browsing individual websites, you can use a comparison portal like Check24, which gathers all available plans based on your location and electricity usage. You can filter by price, green energy, contract terms, and bonuses, and even sign up directly through the portal.

🔍 Ready to Save on Your Electricity Bill?

Compare the best electricity providers in Germany now using this Check24 comparison tool:
👉 Click here to find the best deals

It’s fast, free, and could save you hundreds of euros per year. Whether you care about sustainability, need English support, or just want the best rate—Check24 makes it simple.

April 8, 2025 IdeasFuse Staff Check24, Electricity No comments yet

Navigating Germany with Ease: Essential Apps & Exclusive Gifts for Newcomers!

Guten Tag Newcomers!

Embarking on your journey in Germany just got a whole lot smoother! Introducing our ultimate guide to essential apps, ensuring your onboarding is hassle-free, and guess what? We’ve lined up exclusive gifts for you when you sign up through our special links!

Mobility Solutions

Bolt

Unlock seamless rides with Bolt and enjoy a whopping 40% off your first 2 trips (Max 15€ per trip). Click here to claim your discount.

Uber

Unleash Uber Awesomeness: Get 25€ Off Your First 5 Rides! Ride now!

FREENOW

Experience affordability with FREENOW and get 50% off your first trip (up to 10,00 €). Download the app here.

SIXT

Get exclusive vouchers worth a total of 60€ for SIXT rent, share, and ride. Get it here.

MILES

Enjoy a win-win situation with MILES – both you and a friend get 10€ credit. Claim your credit here.

Utilities

Insurances

GetSafe

A gift from Getsafe | €15 credit | Get the insurance of tomorrow. Get insured now!

Food Delivery:

Wolt

Indulge in Wolt and treat yourself with Wolt credits. Use this code upon signup: EXWMCUR. Click here for delicious savings.

Uber Eats

Your first Uber Eats order is €20 off. Buy here and satisfy your cravings.

Wallet Apps

Revolut

Simplify your finances with Revolut and enjoy additional benefits. Grab it now.

Money Transfer:

Wise

Send money abroad with Wise – it’s easy and a lot cheaper than the bank. Try it with a fee-free transfer of up to 500 GBP. Click here to experience cost-effective transfers (Wise referral link not provided).

Taptap

Use code UCC9 G014, and you will get a bonus upon sending. Send now.

Investing and Banking:

Trade Republic

Join Trade Republic for smart investing, spending, and banking. Use code L5S5GGV3 to get a welcome bonus. Claim your bonus here

KuCoin

Enter code QBST7XFY when signing up on KuCoin, and you’ll receive a bonus. Start your journey with KuCoin and enjoy the benefits of this referral code! Start now!

Feel free to share these exclusive offers with friends and make the most of your new adventure in Germany!

January 28, 2024 IdeasFuse Staff General 2 comments

How To Book An Appointment For Visit Visa For Your Family

Planning a family visit abroad involves several crucial steps, with booking a visit visa appointment being paramount. In this concise guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to easily book an appointment for a Germany visit visa. Whether you’re visiting loved ones or exploring new destinations, this article will help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure a successful visit visa application for your family.

To install the provided Chrome plugin, click here to access the Chrome Web Store page for the plugin

On the plugin’s page, click on the “Add to Chrome” button located on the top-right corner.
Chrome will start downloading the plugin, and once the process is complete, a notification will appear confirming the successful installation.
The plugin’s icon will typically appear in the top-right corner of the Chrome toolbar.

Step 2: Setting up the Plugin

Once you have successfully installed the plugin, follow these steps to set it up:

Locate the plugin icon in the top-right corner of your Chrome toolbar.
Right-click on the plugin icon to open the options menu.
From the options menu, navigate to the “Import/Export” tab.
In the “Import/Export” tab, you will find an option to write a script. Copy the script provided below and paste it into the designated area.
Update the following values in the provided script: last name, first name, email, repeat email, passport number, telephone number, currently living in province, and country. Leave the remaining values as they are.
After updating the fields, click on the “Import” button to apply the changes.
Next, navigate to the “Form Fields” section within the plugin options.
Customize the form fields as needed and make any desired modifications.
Once you are satisfied with the changes, click on the “Save” button to save the updated settings.

### AUTOFILL PROFILES ###,,,,,,
Profile ID,Name,Site,Hotkey,,,
c1,Mama,,,,,
c2,Sis,,,,,
### AUTOFILL RULES ###,,,,,,
Rule ID,Type,Name,Value,Site,Mode,Profile
r1,0,"Last Name:","Doe","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r2,0,"First Name:","John","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r3,0,"Email:","johndoe@gmail.com","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r4,0,"Repeat email:","johndoe@gmail.com","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r5,0,"passport number:","AB123123","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r8,0,"Telephone number:","090078601","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r6,0,"Currently living in(province):","Sindh","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
r7,0,"Nationality:","Pakistan","https://service2.diplo.de",1,
### AUTOFILL OPTIONS ###,,,,,,
advanced,"[]",,,,,
exceptions,"[]",,,,,
textclips,"[]",,,,,
variables,"[]",,,,,
activecat,1,,,,,
autoimport,0,,,,,
backup,0,30,,,,
badge,1,,,,,
closeinfobar,1,1,,,,
debug,0,,,,,
delay,0,0.5,,,,
fluid,1,,,,,
hidebackup,0,,,,,
manual,0,,,,,
mask,1,,,,,
menu,1,,,,,
overwrite,1,,,,,
sitefilters,1,,,,,
skiphidden,0,,,,,
sound,1,,,,,
vars,1,,,,,
voice,0,1,,,,

Step 3: Booking Your Germany Visit Visa Appointment

Open a new tab in your web browser and visit the following link: https://service2.diplo.de/rktermin/extern/choose_category.do?locationCode=kara&realmId=771&categoryId=1416.
On the webpage, click on the “Continue” button.
Fill in the captcha as prompted.
Click on an available appointment that suits your preferences.
Most of the required data will be automatically filled in for you. However, make sure to check if the province and country fields are filled correctly. If needed, update them accordingly.
Complete the captcha verification process to confirm your request.
Once you have successfully filled in the required details and completed the captcha, your appointment booking process will be complete.

Tips for Booking an Appointment

Remember, appointments are typically released every day from Monday to Thursday at 12 am Germany Time. Keep checking regularly for updated appointment availability.
Due to high demand, it’s crucial to act quickly and book an available appointment as soon as possible. As hundreds of people are applying simultaneously, time is of the essence, and options may be limited.
Be prepared to select any available timing that suits your schedule. The competition for appointments can be fierce, so it’s advisable to be flexible and secure a slot whenever possible.
Keep in mind that the website may experience high traffic and occasional crashes due to the heavy influx of users. If you encounter any issues, try refreshing or reloading the page until it stabilizes.
Keep trying every day at 12 am German time to book an appointment. Persistence is key, as it may take 1-3 attempts to secure a booking due to high demand and limited availability.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of successfully booking an appointment for your desired date and time. Good luck!

Also, if you find this guide helpful and successfully book an appointment using the provided information, consider buying me a coffee as a token of appreciation. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Once you’ve successfully booked your Germany visit visa appointment for your family, you might be wondering how to navigate Germany smoothly during your trip. Check out our guide on ‘Navigating Germany with Ease: Essential Apps & Exclusive Gifts for Newcomers!‘ for recommendations on helpful apps and unique gifts to enhance your experience.

July 14, 2023 IdeasFuse Staff General, IT No comments yet